Clockwork Princess - By Angelica Späth

Written By: Angelica Späth

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Angelica Späth, writing under the pen name Clockwork Princess, presents her poem "Clockwork Princess" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. As a participant in this prestigious event, Späth brings a distinctive voice and poignant perspective to the competition. Her work delves into the complexities of emotion and identity, offering readers a reflective exploration of societal constraints and personal autonomy.

About the Work

"Clockwork Princess" is a vivid portrayal of the tension between mechanical obedience and human emotion. Angelica Späth crafts a rhythmic and haunting narrative through repeated motifs, highlighting themes of control and resistance. The poem's structure mimics the relentless ticking of time, reinforcing the mechanical constraints imposed on the protagonist, while simultaneously evoking a powerful sense of longing for freedom and self-expression.

Clockwork Princess

Original Submission by Angelica Späth

Clockwork princess

Tick tick tick

Don’t fall in love

Tick tick tick

Don’t lose your temper

Tick tick tick

Don’t feel the gears

Tick tick tick

You’re not built to feel

Tick, you’re not built to speak

Tick, you’re not built to think

Tick, youre not built to riot

Tick tick tick

Don’t fall in love

Tick tick tick

Don’t lose your temper

Tick tick tick

Don’t feel the gears

Tick tick tick

You were built to serve

Tick, you were built to obey

Tick, you’re not built to be seen

Tick, you were built to breed

“You’re just a machine

For the pleasure of Men”

(Or that’s what He tells me)

Tick

Tick

Tick

T…ick

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the art of storytelling and poetic expression. This esteemed competition invites participants from around the globe to share their creative talents and unique perspectives. Through this platform, writers and poets explore diverse themes and contribute to a vibrant literary community.

We thank Angelica Späth for her captivating contribution, "Clockwork Princess," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of identity and constraint invites readers to ponder the delicate balance between autonomy and conformity. We appreciate her participation and look forward to seeing more of her evocative work in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.